Supersystem - A Million Microphones

Genre rock Publisher Touch & Go Records External Links Official Supersystem Website Official Touch & Go Records Website

Proving that bands don't need a legible album font to get noticed, Supersystem bring an interesting mix of rock and electronica to their sophomore album A Million Microphones. I say interesting because on the strongest tracks, the drums and beats are not computerized, whereas the looping sounds around them are synthesizers, harp, and whatever blips they can find.

That combination is refreshing from the typical synthetic and overly processed sounds permeating electronic-based music these days, and the band shines on tracks like "Not the Concept" and the lead single "White Light White Light." Guitars are not missed, the keys and driving bass beat make up for whatever tunnel visioned listener would find the album lacking.

Unfortunately, the album is largely hit or miss, oftentimes delving into a philosophical tone, pensive even. One would be able to fall back onto the lyrics in spots of musical dullness, but songs like "Eagles Flying Eyries" and "Joy" will not be compared favorably to great poetic works. The singer would do better to not filter the vocals through what sounds like a distant, empty oil drum. There are a handful of tracks on Microphones to unlock your body to, but the album is inconsistent overall.